This morning was pretty chilly and the bird feeders were all quite active. The hummingbirds are at the end of their migration cycle – I only have juveniles left. The males left about two weeks ago, females last week and this week I have the poor juveniles all fluffed up and cold, just sitting on the hummingbird feeders wondering what the heck all this cold stuff is. During the height of the season I have five hummer feeders out, which is still not enough to support the volume of hummers I have, but now I am down to just two.

This winter I am going to try and keep a single feeder out for the Rufous Hummingbird which has been known to overwinter in the area. The rufous used to be a rare bird in my area but they are becoming more common, so we shall see how that goes.

I saw my first rose breasted grosbeaks, two females, a species that passes through spring and fall. Lots of warblers who won’t stay still long enough for me to get a good look at them and I eagerly await the return of my favorite, the ruby crowned kinglet. Love the kinglets! They follow me about the woods and scold as I apparently have no business in their space. The ruby crowned seem to think there is a magical border that I may not cross. One I leave the yard area they have fits. Too cute.

I haven’t paid enough attention lately but need to keep an eye out for migrants for the list I keep on EBird – Cornell Lab of Ornithology and National Audubon Society so others can see what species are around. EBird is great a great resource for a wildlife gardener. They provide maps with user submitted (that means YOU, okay?) bird sightings by location so you can know which species to provide habitat for. If you don’t use Ebird, start! It’s helpful to the world of ornithology to track the birds as well as helpful to the average backyard wildlife gardener or bird watcher.